AUCKLAND – Central United FC is excited to announce that Jose Manuel Figueira as its new coach for the 2014 Northern Premier League campaign.
Figueira joins Central United in February and has penned a season-long contract that will keep him in yellow until the end of the Northern Premier League season.
The new Central United head coach is currently based in New York coaching for Major League Soccer Franchise New York Red Bulls, where he headed up the clubs key training program based in Manhattan.
“This is a great move for Central United and we’re all excited to have a coach of Jose’s abilities at Kiwitea Street,” Ivan Vuksich said.
“I’ve been impressed with his attitude and vision for the club, and we’re delighted to have him on board.”
“Jose continually pushes himself to perform and improve as a coach, and we’re excited about the coming season.”
Figueira was equally excited to be returning to New Zealand after his American adventure.
“Once I knew the opportunity was there to return to Central United there was no hesitation. I am really happy and honoured to become the next coach of Central United and excited to get things started”. he said.
“The club made me feel welcome right from the start, and I think the way the club is run means we have a good fit.”
Figueira has coached in New Zealand previously and so there will be few surprises for him once he arrives in the country after a short vacation in Spain.
And Central United’s new coach says his family are right behind his decision to return to Auckland.
“I am in the UK and Spain visiting family for the festive season and broke the news to them that I am returning to New Zealand.”
“They are all very happy for me and it has made me even more excited to get started,” Figueira said.
“I feel like I have grown as a coach since working in the USA with the New York Red Bulls so I hope I can keep doing that. I am looking forward to bringing back my experiences and knowledge to help develop the club and its players”.
Figueira and his new team begin pre-season training on February 18 and are looking for regular preseason fixtures throughout a seven week pre-season preparatory programme.